Camels are the Showstoppers at this Beauty Pageant in Saudi Arabia

Camels have been very significant to the culture of Saudi Arabia. For time immemorial they have been used as the means of transportation on the sands of the desert. It’s no surprise that camels are a historical symbol in Saudi Arabia to an extent that they have their own beauty contest there. I’m not kidding. It’s true.

The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is a grand affair in Al Dhana, Saudi Arabia. More than 30,000 camels participate every year and showcase their beauty to the crowd of admirers. And why not when the prize money is $31.8 million.

Now you must be wondering how do you judge the beauty of a camel. To satisfy your curiosity, you can go through the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival’s website that has a section dedicated to the “standards of camel beauty.” The beauty pageant is organized in January every year.

While you’re in Al Dhana and have already been a spectator of the amazing beauty contest, why not pay a visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s dazzling capital.

3 Must Visit Places in Riyadh

Salam Park

Salam Park is a perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to spend a long time at one place. It has everything from dancing fountain, amphitheatres, 37 meters high Saudi flag post, open space for events, to area for children where they can indulge in cycling and skating.

National Museum

Visit to the national museum is a must to get to know the history and heritage of a country. The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is categorized into eight themes:

Which are Man and the Universe

Arabian Kingdom

The Pre-Islamic Era

The Prophet’s Mission

Islam and the Arabian Peninsula

First and Second Saudi States

The Unification

The Hajj and the Two Holy Mosque

A variety of antiques, manuscripts, miniatures, and artifacts will take you back in time.

Old Diriyah

It used to be the home of the Saudi Royal Family as well as the first capital of the kingdom. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and definitely not-miss while paying a visit to the Saudi Arabia’s capital. Trace history with ancient mud houses and be a part of a bygone era.